Pregnant During the Pandemic? A Guide to Virtual Support

No one anticipates giving birth during a global pandemic. It may feel overwhelming to navigate pregnancy while working through all the challenges this pandemic poses, but you are not alone. Finding ways to connect with others (while still keeping yourself safe) will promote a positive mindset, ensuring you and baby are as happy and relaxed as possible. Along with friends and family, consider adding a doula to your tight network of people to support you. Although we are physically distanced, comprehensive virtual support services provided by doulas and other birth-workers are becoming more and more accessible.

Minimizing high levels of stress during pregnancy is important in keeping you and baby safe. So, if you are struggling with added stress/anxiety during the pandemic, focus on keeping yourself calm and grounded in whatever ways feel right to you. I recommend guided meditations, listening to your favorite music, moving your body, eating nutritious foods, and connecting virtually with trusted friends and family.

With a consistent support person, you can more easily achieve the safe and empowering birth experience you desire. Doula's can buffer harsh environments and negative circumstances by providing a wealth of support and companionship, which has a very positive impact on self-esteem (Hofmeyr et al., 1991). With a doula in particular, the rate of cesarean births can be decreased by 39%, and the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth can be increased by 15% (Evidence Based Birth, 2019).

If you planned on having a doula for your labor and delivery, do not fret. A doula can still provide extensive virtual prenatal support and education throughout your entire birth process. Video conferencing technology has helped bridge the distance, providing a personalized way to connect in an isolated time. Doulas are able to help you develop birth preferences, plan for postpartum support, and guide you through what to expect when birthing in a hospital environment during COVID-19. A video platform can also be utilized to teach you and your partner in-labor comfort techniques, such as: breathing patterns, massage, counter-pressure, labor positions, simple rebozo techniques, and more! Find comfort knowing that doulas are going above and beyond to offer video, text, and call support 24/7 through your pregnancy, labor, and birth experience.

What is being offered virtually other than doula support? There are a variety of childbirth education courses, guided meditations, breastfeeding education, and prenatal exercise classes available online to help mamas and families through the lack of in-person support during this time!

Check out the video below to hear from some other women in the Bay Area birthing during COVID-19, as well as a short segment from me on how a doula can virtually support you throughout this unprecedented time!